The Elementary Backstroke

4. The Elementary Backstroke

The elementary backstroke is a great first stroke to learn. It builds upon the back float and allows you to breath easily, since your face is exposed to the air. The only thing different with the elementary back stroke variation is that it uses a flutter kick instead of the frog kick.

This stroke will allow you to become mobile in the water fairly easily and is good to use when you get tired. As with backstrokes, you can’t see behind you with out turning your head or tilting your head back, so be careful and look back often.

Tip: It helps to tilt the head a little bit and look at your feet. Practice different head positions to find the best one for you.